Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken

Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken

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Elevate your dinner with Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken, a Stuffed Chicken Delight featuring juicy chicken breasts filled with vibrant roasted red peppers, nutritious spinach, and a creamy cheese blend, all baked in a rich, cheesy sauce. Brushed with bold Cajun seasoning, this dish is perfect for cozy weeknights or impressive gatherings. Make this Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken for a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Why You’ll Love Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken

I adore Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken because it’s a Stuffed Chicken Delight that combines bold flavors with easy prep. The colorful filling and luscious cheese sauce make it look and taste gourmet, yet it’s ready in under an hour. This Stuffed Chicken Delight is a family favorite that wows guests without hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients for Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need for Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken (serves 4):

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz each)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Filling

  • 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
  • ¾ cup jarred roasted red peppers, chopped
  • ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

  • Meat mallet
  • Plastic wrap
  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish (9×13-inch)
  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Toothpicks
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Tips

  • Chicken: Choose uniform breasts for even cooking; pound to ½-inch thickness.
  • Spinach: Squeeze frozen spinach dry to avoid a watery filling; fresh spinach works if sautéed and cooled.
  • Roasted Peppers: Jarred peppers save time; rinse if overly salty.
  • Cheese: Freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan melt best; fontina can replace mozzarella.
  • Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but expect less richness.

Directions for Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken

Let’s make this Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken!

Prepare the Chicken

I pound 4 chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness between plastic wrap using a meat mallet for uniform cooking.

Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, I mix 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. I brush this paste generously over both sides of each chicken breast.

Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, I combine 1 cup drained spinach, ¾ cup chopped roasted red peppers, ¾ cup mozzarella, ½ cup ricotta, ¼ cup Parmesan, and 1 beaten egg until well blended.

Stuff and Roll

I spread ¼ of the filling evenly over each chicken breast, leaving a ½-inch border. I roll tightly from the narrower end and secure with toothpicks, ensuring the filling peeks out for presentation.

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, I sear the chicken rolls for 2–3 minutes per side until golden, then transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, I melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat, then whisk in 2 tbsp flour to form a roux. I gradually add 1 cup chicken broth and ½ cup heavy cream, whisking until smooth. I simmer until thickened (about 2 minutes), then stir in ½ cup mozzarella until melted.

Bake and Serve

I pour the cheese sauce over the chicken and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. I let the Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and serving.

Nutrition

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50–55 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: ~550 kcal per serving
  • Macros per Serving: 20g carbs, 40g protein, 35g fat, 3g fiber

Variations for Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken

Try these twists on Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken:

  • Greens Swap: Use sautéed kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different Stuffed Chicken Delight.
  • Cheese Twist: Swap mozzarella for fontina or provolone for a bolder Stuffed Chicken Delight.
  • Spice Adjustment: Replace Cajun seasoning with Italian herbs for a milder flavor.
  • Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms to the filling for extra umami.
  • Lighter Sauce: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream for a less rich sauce.

Serving Ideas:

  • Pair with Food and Tips’ Delicious Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a hearty meal spread.
  • Serve with a light arugula salad to balance the rich Stuffed Chicken Delight.
  • Offer at dinner parties or Sunday dinners for an elegant touch.

Storage

I store leftover Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes to maintain texture; microwaving may soften the chicken. For freezing, I wrap cooled rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. I thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven, adding fresh sauce if needed.

Serving Tips

  • Presentation: Slice Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken diagonally to showcase the colorful filling spiral.
  • Garnish: Drizzle with reserved cheese sauce or sprinkle with parsley for elegance.
  • Pairing: Enjoy with white wine or sparkling water to complement the Stuffed Chicken Delight.
  • Portion Size: One stuffed breast per person for a satisfying meal.
  • Occasions: Ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or cozy family meals.

FAQs About Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken

Here are some frequently asked questions about Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken:

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Simply sauté it lightly to reduce excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients.

What can I use as a substitute for Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper works well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken ahead, store in the fridge for up to 24 hours, and bake when needed. Add the cheese sauce just before baking.

Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.

What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I use jarred roasted peppers instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Jarred roasted red peppers are a convenient, flavorful option; just drain and chop before using.

More Delicious Dinner Recipes You’ll Love

Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken

Conclusion

This Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken is an elegant, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and share, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the savory and irresistible flavors in every bite!

Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken

Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken

This Roasted Pepper Spinach Chicken is an elegant, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and share, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the savory and irresistible flavors in every bite!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6-8 ounces each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Stuffing

  • 1 10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
  • 1 12-ounce jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten

Cheese Sauce

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup milk

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to 1/2-inch thickness. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed spinach, chopped roasted red peppers, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
  • Spread about 1/4 of the spinach mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks.
  • Heat the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken rolls on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the heavy cream and remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Pour the cheese sauce over the seared chicken rolls in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving. Spoon extra sauce over chicken if desired.

Notes

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